Are you tired of the same white Christmas? Do you dream of trading cold weather and crowded malls for a truly unique cultural experience?
Hello, dear reader! If your answer is yes, then celebrating Christmas Eve in Cusco, Peru, is an adventure you must add to your itinerary. Forget about Santa’s workshop, in the heart of the Andes, a more magical event takes place: Santurantikuy.
This annual tradition, whose Quechua name means "Sale of Saints," is far more than just a market; it is an extraordinary open-air spectacle where hundreds of Peruvian artisans gather in the Plaza de Armas to sell pieces for the Nativity scene.
This guide from Peruvian Sunrise is your essential key to navigating the unique crafts, understanding the deep traditions behind the beloved Niño Manuelito (Baby Jesus), and experiencing a Christmas Eve unlike any other. Get ready to swap the traditional holiday rush for the vibrant artistry and profound spirit of a truly Andean Christmas.
What to See and Buy at Santurantikuy
The Santurantikuy market is dedicated almost entirely to the Peruvian Nativity scene (Nacimiento). This is not a place for mass-produced decorations; every stall offers unique craftsmanship that reflects the fusion of Andean and Catholic traditions.
1. The Beloved Niño Manuelito
The central figure of the market is the Niño Manuelito, the Andean Baby Jesus. These figures are crafted by master artisans, often in wood or plaster, and are known for their expressive faces and sometimes very realistic (or even unsettlingly "human") appearance.
- Pro-Tip: Look for figures dressed in typical Andean attire, a signature characteristic of Cusco’s religious art.
2. Andean Elements and Accessories
The market provides all the necessary elements to build a complete Andean Nativity scene, blending local landscapes into the biblical story:
- Miniature Animals: Instead of just sheep, you'll find llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
- The Shepherds: Often depicted wearing traditional Peruvian clothes (ponchos and chullos).
- Flora: Artisans sell miniature trees, bushes, and traditionally, pieces of moss (musgo) and native flowers to recreate the Andean landscape.
3. Meeting the Masters
A major draw of Santurantikuy is the opportunity to meet the artisans face-to-face. Many of them travel from remote Andean villages and are nationally recognized for their work. You can buy directly from the creator, guaranteeing authenticity and supporting Peruvian culture.
Practical Guide: Visiting Santurantikuy
Traveling during the Christmas peak season requires preparation. Here are the essential tips for planning your visit to the Cusco market:
Key Details and Travel Tips | |
| Date & Time | The market starts early (around 5:00 AM) and runs until late afternoon (around 8:00 PM). Recommendation: Go mid-morning (9:00 AM) to avoid the pre-dawn chill and the evening rush. |
| Location | The Plaza de Armas (Main Square) of Cusco. The square will be completely pedestrianized and filled with stalls. |
| Budget | Entrance is free. Plan to bring Peruvian Soles (cash) for purchases. While prices are reasonable, haggling (negotiating) is expected, especially if you buy multiple pieces. |
| What to Wear | December is the rainy season in the Andes. Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes and dress in layers. It can be sunny one moment and raining the next. |
| Safety | The market gets extremely crowded. Be vigilant of your belongings (wallets, phones) and use a cross-body bag or money belt. |
FAQ's about the Santurantikuy
How does this affect visiting Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu remains open on December 24th and 25th. However, train and bus schedules may be slightly reduced on Christmas Day. It is essential to book your entrance and train tickets well in advance when traveling during the holiday week.
Can I book a tour that includes the Santurantikuy Market?
Yes! While the market itself is free to enter, Peruvian Sunrise offers specialized Christmas Cusco packages that include guided visits to the Santurantikuy, traditional chocolatada experiences, and guaranteed access to top hotels during the peak holiday season.
What is the weather like in Cusco on Christmas Eve?
December is summer but also the start of the rainy season in the mountains. Expect high temperatures around 19°C-66°F and lows around 7°C- 45°F, with a high chance of afternoon rain showers.
Next Step: Book Your Peruvian Sunrise Adventure
Don't just read about the magic—experience it! Santurantikuy is more than a shopping trip; it's a deep cultural immersion. Planning a peak-season trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, especially around Christmas, requires local expertise.
Peruvian Sunrise specializes in seamless, high-end, and culturally rich Peruvian holidays.
Ready to trade your traditional Christmas for an Andean Summer Holiday?
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